The Blessings of Exile, Gospel Living!

I. A New Life (23-25)
     A. The Good News of the Word
     B. A pure heart and soul
II. A New Love (1:22 & 2:1)
     A. Sincere brotherly love (phileo) not wearing a mask
     B. Earnest love (agape) Not stagnate but ever growing.
     C. Distinctive love (rid yourself of malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy)
III. A New Longing (2:2-3)
     A. A strong desire for the Word's nourishment
     B. Strong desire to grow up
IV. A New Living (2:4-8)
     A. A holy priesthood (comparing an OT priest and a NT priest)
     B. Offering spiritual sacrifices (our bodies, our voices, serving others, sharing resources, bringing people to Christ, sacrificing desires, praying)
V. A New Likeness (2:9-10)
     A. A Chosen Race
     B. A Royal Priesthood
     C. A Holy Nation
     D. A People of God's Possession
     E. A People for God's Purpose
     F. A People Changed by God's Mercy

Next Steps:
      > With blessings comes responsibilities: Self-examine your obedience to the imperatives. Love One Another, Long for the Spiritual Milk of the Word.
      > With blessings comes privileges: Resolve in your heart to worship and to proclaim the excellencies of Christ.